Shreyas Iyer was spotted using a bowling action inspired by a Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) teammate during a Buchi Babu tournament match. Since Gautam Gambhir took over as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team, there seems to be a shift in approach. Unlike the previous era under Rahul Dravid, which emphasised specialist roles—evident in how Shivam Dube was utilised in the T20 World Cup 2024—Gambhir appears to be encouraging even specialist batters to contribute with the ball.
In recent developments, Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh bowled during the Sri Lanka T20Is, and now Shreyas Iyer was seen bowling on Day 1 of the Buchi Babu tournament match between TNCA XI and Mumbai. The former KKR captain, who led the team to an IPL title in 2024, showcased a bowling action reminiscent of a KKR teammate while playing for Sarfaraz Khan-led Mumbai, alongside Suryakumar Yadav, at the Sri Ramakrishna College Cricket Ground.
With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 approaching, rumours suggest KKR might consider trading Shreyas Iyer if Mumbai Indians (MI) agree to release Suryakumar Yadav in a potential deal. However, no official statements have been made by either franchise, and the reports remain speculative.
A major reshuffle is expected this year, with a mega-auction slated before IPL 2025, likely in December. Given Suryakumar Yadav's recent appointment as India's T20I captain, he might have aspirations to lead an IPL team, making such trade scenarios more plausible.